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I first read this book at about the end of my first year of training and have read it at least once a year since. This book changes to match my understanding of the art of Aikido. Each time I read it I "discover" something new.

Doshu discusses KI, the history of Aikdo and the need for regular and rigourous training. There is a brief section on specific techniques, which lend perspective, but there are many better "technique manuals". He discusses the expansion of Aikido in the West. There is a good assortment of historical photos of O Sensei.

The greatest value of this book is the presentation of the historic and philosophical foundations of the art. This book is invaluable to me in my attempt to develop an understanding of the esoteric pillars of Aikido.

Presented here are the all-too-often invisibilities of O'Sensei's and his son's dream for Aikido. The first time I read this book, when Ueshiba K. discusses how beautiful it is to him for students, including young people, to sit in a humble seiza, awaiting Sensei's instruction, I got chills. This book is about love and respect, two emotions refined with the vehicle of proper Aikido training. Aikido enacted properly is a beautiful thing, and the motivations of proper students and sensei are intrinsically rewarding at a level unparalleled.